This sweet-and-savory Honey-Glazed Blueberry Pork Chops recipe comes from our beloved “Bee Lady,” Lynne Bottazzo of Amen Bee Products, whose local honey adds a golden touch to everything it graces. Juicy pork chops are pan-seared to a crisp, then finished in the oven with a luscious glaze of fresh blueberries, red wine, and floral honey—creating...Read More

These Spicy Glazed Pecans strike the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. Coated in a light glaze of powdered sugar, cayenne, and salt, the pecans toast in the oven until golden and caramelized, creating a crunchy snack that’s irresistible. They’re an elegant addition to any holiday appetizer spread, especially when served with wine or...Read More

Earthy, rich, and deeply comforting, this homemade cream of mushroom soup is worlds apart from the canned version. A hearty base of sautéed mushrooms, tender vegetables, and chewy barley gives it a rustic texture, while a touch of cream brings velvety smoothness to every spoonful. A splash of dry sherry adds warmth and depth, making...Read More

These tender cookies capture the bright, sunny flavor of fresh oranges in every bite. With a soft, pillowy texture and a sweet citrus glaze, they’re like little bites of sunshine—perfect for winter baking when citrus is at its peak. The fresh orange juice and zest give both the cookies and frosting a vibrant aroma that...Read More

Few foods say “Fall” quite like roasted chestnuts. Their nutty sweetness and soft, comforting texture make them perfect for snacking on a chilly evening or adding to festive dishes. While cracking into chestnuts takes a little effort, the aroma that fills your kitchen and the warm, tender bites are well worth it. With just a...Read More

This quick, comforting soup captures the earthy sweetness of butternut squash in its simplest form — no peeling, no fuss. Roasting or microwaving the squash brings out its natural caramelized flavor, while sautéed onions and thyme add a savory, aromatic base. Blended until silky smooth and finished with a sprinkle of blue cheese and toasted...Read More

A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this Polenta Lasagne—inspired by the vegetarian kitchen at the University of California, Santa Cruz—layers creamy herbed polenta with savory tomato sauce, seasoned tofu, and garlicky sautéed spinach. The result is a deeply satisfying, plant-based main dish that’s hearty enough for everyone at the table. The soft, rich texture of...Read More

Bright, herbal, and just the right amount of spicy, this Cilantro-Jalapeño Mignonette is a lively twist on the classic vinegar-based oyster sauce. Fresh cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño add punch and aroma, while rice wine vinegar brings a clean, tangy finish that enhances—not overpowers—the briny sweetness of shellfish. It’s a perfect accompaniment for raw oysters,...Read More

Cool, refreshing, and delicately tangy, this Cucumber Dressing captures the essence of summer. Fresh cucumbers blend with lemon juice, sour cream, and dill to create a light yet velvety dressing that’s perfect for mixed greens, grilled vegetables, or as a finishing touch for poached salmon. A touch of sweetness balances the tang, while a hint...Read More

Rich, tangy, and irresistibly smooth, this Creamy Feta Cheese Spread brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Blending briny feta with cream cheese, olive oil, garlic, and oregano creates a luscious, savory dip that pairs beautifully with an assortment of mezze-style accompaniments. Serve it with warm pita, crisp crackers, and marinated vegetables for...Read More